For many parents, it’s a daily battle trying to get their young child to brush, let alone floss, and it often causes the day to end on a stressful note. If this sounds familiar, thankfully you’re not alone, and there are many new, innovative products available designed to help children become excited about their oral care. What are they? How do they work? In honor of Children’s Dental Health Month, here are three dental products that could finally make your child look forward to brushing and flossing.
1. The Brushies
The Brushies are the brainchild of a dentist as well as a family psychologist. Both of their children weren’t exactly avid brushers, so they decided to morph the task into playtime rather than making it a chore. How did they accomplish this? By creating The Brushies, a colorful collection of finger puppet brushes that allow parents to tell stories while their child cleans their teeth. Not only are the puppets more fun than a “boring” brush, but the built-in characters and narrative give a child a reason to look forward to each session so they will be the one asking their parent if they can brush rather than the other way around!
2. GumChucks
Many adults have a difficult time flossing consistently, so it’s no wonder that many children aren’t exactly fans of it either. Enter GumChucks, a flossing device that literally makes the thread look like nunchucks thanks to handles on either end. This not only makes flossing easier for little fingers, but the handles also encourage proper flossing technique. Plus, GumChucks for Kids features colorful characters and even trading cards designed to keep kiddos engaged.
3. BrushyBall
The BrushyBall is a bright yellow animated brushing coach that sits right next to the sink. It works by walking the child through a unique follow-the-leader type game that guides them through proper brushing. It’s a toothbrush holder, so the game starts as soon as the child grabs their brush! Like the other products listed, it adds a little fun to oral hygiene so the child forms a positive relationship with taking care of their teeth as early as possible.
Getting your child to brush and floss doesn’t have to be a struggle. In fact, with these products, it can become a highlight of your day as you and your little one both have fun right before bedtime. By getting them into the habit of consistently brushing and flossing now, you dramatically increase their chances of doing so as they grow older, ensuring a lifetime of bright, healthy smiles.
About the Author
Dr. Krysten Jackson and Dr. Eric Parsons love treating patients of all ages here at El Reno Family Dentistry, and this includes the youngest members of your family! They strongly encourage parents to take advantage of these products, and to get more daily oral healthcare tips for your family, or to schedule a checkup and cleaning, you can get in touch with our office by clicking here.